Systems and methods for overcoming stiction using a lever

ABSTRACT

A microstructure is provided including a base layer underlying a first and second structural plates. Operation of the microstructure is capable of overcoming stiction. Methods of operation include providing an edge of the first structural plate in contact with a contact point. A second structural plate is deflected in a way that overcomes stiction between the first structural plate and the contact point. Such deflection can include providing a prying force to lift the first structural plate or a hammering force to disturb any stiction related forces at the contact point.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is being filed concurrently with related U.S. patentapplications: “MEMS-BASED NONCONTACTING FREE-SPACE OPTICAL SWITCH”,Attorney Docket Number 19930-002500; “METHODS AND APPARATUS FORPROVIDING A MULTI-STOP MICROMIRROR”, Attorney Docket Number19930-003000; and “BISTABLE MICROMIRROR WITH CONTACTLESS STOPS,”Attorney Docket Number 19930-003200; all of which are assigned to acommon entity and are herein incorporated by reference in their entiretyfor all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to the field ofmicro-electrical-mechanical systems (MEMS), and in particular, toimproved MEMS devices and methods for their use with fiber-opticcommunications systems.

The Internet and data communications are causing an explosion in theglobal demand for bandwidth. Fiber optic telecommunications systems arecurrently deploying a relatively new technology called dense wavelengthdivision multiplexing (DWDM) to expand the capacity of new and existingoptical fiber systems to help satisfy this demand. In DWDM, multiplewavelengths of light simultaneously transport information through asingle optical fiber. Each wavelength operates as an individual channelcarrying a stream of data. The carrying capacity of a fiber ismultiplied by the number of DWDM channels used. Today DWDM systemsemploying up to 80 channels are available from multiple manufacturers,with more promised in the future.

In all telecommunication networks, there is the need to connectindividual channels (or circuits) to individual destination points, suchas an end customer or to another network. Systems that perform thesefunctions are called cross-connects. Additionally, there is the need toadd or drop particular channels at an intermediate point. Systems thatperform these functions are called add-drop multiplexers (ADMs). All ofthese networking functions are currently performed byelectronics—typically an electronic SONET/SDH system. However SONET/SDHsystems are designed to process only a single optical channel.Multi-wavelength systems would require multiple SONET/SDH systemsoperating in parallel to process the many optical channels. This makesit difficult and expensive to scale DWDM networks using SONET/SDHtechnology.

The alternative is an all-optical network. Optical networks designed tooperate at the wavelength level are commonly called “wavelength routingnetworks” or “optical transport networks” (OTN). In a wavelength routingnetwork, the individual wavelengths in a DWDM fiber must be manageable.New types of photonic network elements operating at the wavelength levelare required to perform the cross-connect, ADM and other networkswitching functions. Two of the primary functions are optical add-dropmultiplexers (OADM) and wavelength-selective cross-connects (WSXC).

In order to perform wavelength routing functions optically today, thelight stream must first be de-multiplexed or filtered into its manyindividual wavelengths, each on an individual optical fiber. Then eachindividual wavelength must be directed toward its target fiber using alarge array of optical switches commonly called an optical cross-connect(OXC). Finally, all of the wavelengths must be re-multiplexed beforecontinuing on through the destination fiber. This compound process iscomplex, very expensive, decreases system reliability and complicatessystem management. The OXC in particular is a technical challenge. Atypical 40-80 channel DWDM system will require thousands of switches tofully cross-connect all the wavelengths. Conventional opto-mechanicalswitches providing acceptable optical specifications are too big,expensive and unreliable for widespread deployment.

In recent years, micro-electrical-mechanical systems (MEMS) have beenconsidered for performing functions associated with the OXC. Such MEMSdevices are desirable because they may be constructed with considerableversatility despite their very small size. In a variety of applications,MEMS component structures may be fabricated to move in such a fashionthat there is a risk of stiction between that component structure andsome other aspect of the system. One such example of a MEMS componentstructure is a micromirror, which is generally configured to reflectlight from two positions. Such micromirrors find numerous applications,including as parts of optical switches, display devices, and signalmodulators, among others.

In many applications, such as may be used in fiber-optics applications,such MEMS-based devices may include hundreds or even thousands ofmicromirrors arranged as an array. Within such an array, each of themicromirrors should be accurately aligned with both a target and asource. Such alignment is generally complex and typically involvesfixing the location of the MEMS device relative to a number of sourcesand targets. If any of the micromirrors is not positioned correctly inthe alignment process and/or the MEMS device is moved from the alignedposition, the MEMS device will not function properly.

In part to reduce the complexity of alignment, some MEMS devices providefor individual movement of each of the micromirrors. An example isprovided in FIGS. 1A-1C illustrating a particular MEMS micromirrorstructure that may take one of three positions. Each micromirror 116 ismounted on a base 112 that is connected by a pivot 108 to an underlyingbase layer 104. Movement of an individual micromirror 116 is controlledby energizing actuators 124 a and/or 124 b disposed underneath base 112on opposite sides of pivot 108. Hard stops 120 a and 120 b are providedto limit movement of base 112. Energizing left actuator 124 a causesmicromirror 116 to tilt on pivot 108 towards the left side until oneedge of base 112 contacts left hard stop 120 a, as shown in FIG. 1A. Insuch a tilted position, a restoring force 150, illustrated as adirection arrow, is created in opposition to forces created when leftactuator 124 a is energized.

Alternatively, right actuator 124 b may be energized to cause themicromirror 116 to tilt in the opposite direction, as shown in FIG. 1B.In such a tilted position, a restoring force 160, illustrated as adirection arrow, is created in opposition to forces created when rightactuator 124 b is energized. When both actuators 124 are de-energized,as shown in FIG. 1C, restoring forces 150, 160 cause micromirror 116 toassume a horizontal static position. Thus, micromirror 116 may be movedto any of three positions. This ability to move micromirror 116 providesa degree of flexibility useful in aligning (including aligning,pointing, and/or steering) the MEMS device, however, alignmentcomplexity remains significant.

In certain applications, once the micromirror is moved to the properposition, it may remain in that position for ten years or more. Thus,for example, one side of an individual micromirror may remain in contactwith the hard stop for extended periods. Maintaining such contactincreases the incidence of dormancy related stiction. Such stictionresults in the micromirror remaining in a tilted position after theactuators are de-energized. Some theorize that stiction is a result ofmolecule and/or charge buildup at the junction between the micromirrorand the hard stop. For example, it has been demonstrated that capillaryforces due to an accumulation of H₂O molecules at the junction increasesthe incidence of stiction.

Thus, one solution to overcome stiction is to package the MEMS device ina hermetic or inert environment. Such an environment reduces thepossibility of molecule accumulation at the junction. However, suchpackaging is costly and prone to failure where seals break or are notproperly formed. Further, such packaging is incompatible with many typesof MEMS devices. In addition, such packaging does not reduce stictionrelated to charge build-up at the junction.

In “Ultrasonic Actuation for MEMS Dormancy-Related Stiction Reduction”,Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 4180 (2000), Ville Kaajakari et al. describe asystem for overcoming both molecule and charge related stiction. Thesystem operates by periodically vibrating an entire MEMS device torelease stiction forces. In this way, the stiction forces are overcome.While there is evidence that vibrating the entire MEMS device canovercome stiction, such vibration causes temporary or even permanentmisalignment of the device. Thus, freeing an individual micromirroroften requires a costly re-alignment procedure. Even where the device isnot permanently misaligned by the vibration, it is temporarilydysfunctional while the vibration is occurring.

Thus, there exists a need in the art for systems and methods forincreasing alignment flexibility of MEMS devices and for overcomingstiction in MEMS devices without causing misalignment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides improved MEMS devices for use with alloptical networks, and methods of using and making the same. Therefore,some embodiments of the invention include a structural plate comprisinga micromirror. For example, the present invention may be used with theexemplary wavelength routers described in co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/422,061, filed Nov. 16, 1999, the completedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.

Embodiments of the present invention comprise methods and apparatusrelated to overcoming stiction in electromechanical devices. In anembodiment, the stiction is between a structural plate and a contactpoint. The method of overcoming the stiction includes providing a baselayer underlying a first and a second structural plates. An edge of thefirst structural plate is in contact with the contact point. The secondstructural plate is deflected in a way that overcomes the stictionbetween the first structural plate and the contact point.

In some embodiments, deflecting the second structural plate causes aprying force on the first structural plate, while in other embodiments,deflecting the second structural plate causes a hammering force on thefirst structural plate. In both types of embodiments, the forces areuseful to overcome stiction.

Further, some embodiments of the present invention pertain to awavelength router including a control member disposed adjacent to amicromirror assembly. The control member can be used in relation to themicromirror assembly to overcome stiction. Other embodiments includecomputer readable code for execution by a microprocessor to configureplates relative to a base layer in a micromirror device. Configuring theplates comprises moving one plate to contact a base layer, while movinganother plate to contact the first. In some embodiments, the contactbetween the two plates acts to dislodge stiction causing molecules. Inother embodiments, the contact between the plates provides a leveruseful for overcoming stiction related forces. In yet other embodiments,the contact between the two plates results in adding restorative forcesassociated with both plates in a way that overcomes stiction relatedforces.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome more fully apparent from the following detailed description, theappended claims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentinvention may be realized by reference to the figures which aredescribed in remaining portions of the specification. In the figures,like reference numerals are used throughout several to refer to similarcomponents. In some instances, a sub-label consisting of a lower caseletter is associated with a reference numeral to denote one of multiplesimilar components. When reference is made to a reference numeralwithout specification to an existing sub-label, it is intended to referto all such multiple similar components.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C are cross-sectional drawings of a tiltingmicromirror in three positions effected by actuation of differentactuators;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional drawing of a tilting micromirror surroundedon either side by tilting control plates;

FIG. 3A is a top view of an embodiment of the micromirror and controlplates of FIG. 2 where the micromirror is notched;

FIGS. 3B, 3C, 3D, and 3E are cross-sectional drawings of micromirrorpositions according to the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a top view of an embodiment of the micromirror and controlplates of FIG. 2 where the micromirror is not notched;

FIGS. 4B and 4C are cross-sectional drawings of the micromirror and acontrol plate of FIG. 2 displaced such that the micromirror contacts thecontrol plate;

FIGS. 5A-5C are cross-sectional drawings of the micromirror and controlplates of FIG. 4 wherein stiction is inhibiting operation;

FIGS. 6A-6C are cross-sectional drawings of micromirror and controlplates with an advantageous wiring and switching configuration accordingto the present invention;

FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C are schematic top, side, and end views,respectively, of one embodiment of a wavelength router that usesspherical focusing elements;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic top and side views, respectively, of asecond embodiment of a wavelength router that uses spherical focusingelements; and

FIG. 9 is a schematic top view of a third embodiment of a wavelengthrouter that uses spherical focusing elements; and

FIGS. 10A and 10B are side and top views of an implementation of amicromirror retroreflector array.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

1. Definitions

For purposes of this document, a structural plate refers to asubstantially planar structure disposed on or about a pivot. Thestructural plate can be a rectangular plate, or other such member,capable of movement on the pivot. Such movement can be opposed by arestoring force developed at the pivot where the pivot is a torsion beamor bending beam. Thus, the structural plate can be deflected by applyinga force to the structural plate and when the force is removed, thestructural plate returns to a static position. Therefore, the staticposition for a structural plate with associated restorative forces isthe position assumed by the structural plate due to restorative forcesacting in the absence of other external forces, such as, electricfields. In addition, structural plates can include a cantilever platewhere one edge of the structural plate is closer to the pivot than anopposite edge. Further, such structural plates can exhibit anydimensions including very narrow rectangles, squares, and/or othershapes, such as, for example, an elliptically shaped structural plate.

The pivot can be any member capable of supporting the structural platein a way that allows the structural plate to deflect or tilt to one ormore sides. For example, the pivot can be a post disposed near thecenter of a rectangular shaped structural plate. Alternatively, thepivot can be a rectangular shaped plate disposed across a pivot axis ofthe structural plate. Yet another alternative includes a series of twoor more posts disposed across a pivot axis of the structural plate.Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of othermembers and/or geometries which are suitable as pivots.

2. Introduction

Embodiments of the invention are directed to MEMS methods and devices inwhich a microstructure is moved between a plurality of tilt positions.Selection between the plurality of tilt positions is controlled bydeflecting various control members into positions which define stoppositions for the microstructure. In certain embodiments, themicrostructure is a micromirror mounted as a cantilever that may bedeflected between at least three stop positions, wherein one of the stoppositions is a static position. In other embodiments, the microstructureis a structural plate capable of deflection to either the right or theleft, wherein the structural plate may be deflected to five or more stoppositions. In such embodiments, two of the stop positions involve a tiltto the left, two of the stop positions involve a tilt to the right, andone of the stop positions is a static position. In yet otherembodiments, the microstructure is a structural plate mounted on a postand capable of deflection to the right, left, front, rear, or anycombination thereof. In such embodiments, each of a tilt to the right,left, front, or rear can involve a plurality of stop positions.

Thus, the present invention provides for a number of stop positionsallowing the micromirror to assume a wide variety of alignmentpositions. Providing such a variety of alignment positions facilitatesalignment of a MEMS device. Therefore, the present invention isparticularly applicable to optical-switch applications and thus, some ofthe embodiments are directed to a wavelength router that uses opticalswitching. As will be clear to those of skill in the art from thefollowing description, the invention may be adapted to different typesof MEMS devices and/or micromirror configurations. For example, theinvention is applicable to microstructures using a number of controlmembers and/or actuators relative to the microstructure to provide avariety of stop positions.

In addition, some embodiments of the present invention comprise methodsfor overcoming stiction in a MEMS device. In some embodiments, suchmethods employ the control members as levers to dislodge stictioncausing molecules and/or charge. In other embodiments, methods ofovercoming stiction employ the control member to apply a prying force tothe microstructure to overcome any stiction related forces. Thus, thepresent invention is particularly applicable to applications or MEMSinvolving contacting structures, where stiction related problems arepossible. Such applications can include, for example, MEMS devices wherea microstructure is maintained in a deflected position for considerableperiods of time.

3. Torsion-beam Micromirror

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the invention applied to astructural plate micromirror system 200. Micromirror system 200 includesa micromirror 216 mounted on a structural plate 212 that is connected byat least one pivot member 208 to an underlying base layer 204. In someembodiments, multiple pivot members 208 are provided in the planeorthogonal to the page, the axis of rotation of the structural plate 212being defined by the alignment of the pivot members. In one suchembodiment, two pivot members 208 are provided approximately on oppositesides of micromirror 216 along the axis of rotation. Two mirroractuators 224 a and 224 b are provided on the base layer 204 and locatedon either side of pivot member 208.

Two control members (i.e. structural plates) 250, 260 are mounted oneither side of pivot 208. Control member 250 is supported by at leastone pivot 252 and control member 260 is supported by at least one pivot262. Similar to pivot 208, pivots 252 and 262 can comprise multiplepivot members in the plane orthogonal to the page, the axis of rotationof the control members 250, 260 being defined by the alignment of thepivot members. Two control actuators 264 a and 264 b are mounted oneither side of pivot 262 and two control actuators 254 a and 254 b aremounted on either side of pivot 252.

Mirror actuators 224, control actuators 254, 264, structural plate 212,control members 250, 260, and pivot members 208, 252, 262 may befabricated using standard MEMS techniques. Such MEMS techniquestypically involve a combination of depositing structural material, suchas polycrystalline silicon, depositing sacrificial material, such assilicon oxide, and dissolving the sacrificial material during a releasestep, for example with hydrofluoric acid (HF). A number of such stepscan be combined to produce the desired device. Further, in someembodiments, actuators 224, 254, 264 are metallized, for example withaluminum, and micromirror 216 is formed by depositing a layer ofreflective metal, such as gold. In other embodiments, actuators 224,254, 264 are formed of doped polysilicon or other electricallyconductive materials. Such electrically conductive materials can also beused to form a reflective layer forming micromirror 216.

FIG. 2 shows micromirror system 200 in a static horizontal configurationof micromirror 216 and control members 250, 260. The static horizontalconfiguration is achieved when all actuators 224, 254, 264 are commonlygrounded with pivots 208, 252, 262. In some embodiments, as illustratedin FIG. 2, each of structural plate 212, control member 250 and controlmember 260 may be deflected to a position tilted to the right or to theleft. In other embodiments, control members 250, 260 can be cantilevermembers only capable of deflection to a position tilted to either theright or the left. In yet other embodiments, structural plate 212 can bea cantilever member capable of deflection to a right tilted position. Insuch embodiments, only control member 250 is provided. Of course, one ofordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of configurations forstructural plate 212 and/or control members 250, 260.

In some embodiments, a single actuator is used to replace the actuatorpair of actuators 264 b and 224 a and another single actuator is used toreplace the actuator pair of actuators 254 a and 224 b. As will beapparent from the following discussion, many embodiments of the presentinvention involve actuating both actuators 264 b and 224 a or actuators224 b and 254 a simultaneously. Thus, by replacing the actuator pairswith single actuators, the functionality of the present invention can beachieved with minimal actuators, wiring, and control logic.

4. Providing Multiple Deflection Positions

In the described embodiments, each of structural plate 212 and controlmembers 250, 260 can be tilted to the right or to the left dependingupon which actuators 224, 254, 264 are activated through application ofa voltage V to that actuator with respect to the common ground. FIGS. 3through 4 illustrate activation associated with multiple positions ofstructural plate 212. More specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates anembodiment of the present invention where structural plate 212 isnotched (the notched structural plate indicated as 212 x). FIGS. 3Bthrough 3E illustrate tilt positions of notched structural plate 212 x.Alternatively, FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of the presentinvention where structural plate 212 is not notched (the non-notchedstructural plate indicated as 212 y) and FIGS. 4B and 4C illustrate tiltpositions of non-notched structural plate 212 y.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2, and 3B through 3C, a minimum of five tiltpositions for the micromirror are achievable according to the presentinvention. More specifically, one position is the static position asshown in FIG. 2 where none of the actuators are energized. In addition,there are two right tilt positions illustrated in FIGS. 3B and 3D,respectively. Also, there are two left tilt positions illustrated inFIGS. 3C and 3E, respectively. Although not all of the tilt positionsare illustrated, a similar number of tilt positions are achievable usingboth notched structural plate 212 x and non-notched structural plate 212y.

While two tilt positions for both left and right tilts are illustrated,it should be recognized by one skilled in the art that more than twotilt positions for both left and right are possible. For example,additional control members 250, 260 could be fabricated according to thepresent invention at different physical locations which could provideadditional hard stops (i.e. areas of material for stopping tilt ofstructural plate 212 and/or control members 250, 260 elevated above baselayer 204) limiting the deflection of either structural plate 212 x or212 y.

Referring to FIG. 3A, a top view of notched structural plate 212 x isillustrated. As illustrated, notched structural plate 212 x includesboth a left notch 213 and a right notch 214. A width 222 of left notch213 is greater than a width 221 of control member 260 and a width 224 ofright notch 214 is greater than a width 223 of control member 250.Furthermore, structural plate 212 x overlaps a right portion 261 ofcontrol member 260 and a left portion 251 of control member 250.

Referring to FIG. 3B, micromirror system 200 is illustrated with notchedstructural plate 212 x deflected such that the right edge of notchedstructural plate 212 x contacts base layer 204. To allow notchedstructural plate 212 x to contact base layer 204, control member 250 isalso deflected such that the left edge of control member 250 is incontact with base layer 204. In this position, right notch 214 ofnotched structural plate 212 x covers control member 250 such thatnotched structural plate 212 x does not contact control member 250 at anoverlap point 398. However, it should be recognized by one of ordinaryskill in the art that the depth of right notch 214 can be modified suchthat notched structural plate 212 x does contact control member 250rather than contacting base layer 204. Thus, by changing the depth ofright notch 214, the angle of tilt of notched structural plate 212 x canbe selected.

To achieve the tilted position for control member 250, left controlactuator 254 a is activated, as shown in FIG. 3A, by applying a voltageV to that actuator with respect to the common ground. The potentialdifference between control member 250 and left control actuator 254 acreates an electric field 238 indicated by dotted field lines. Suchdeflection of control member 250 results in an opposing restoring force375, illustrated as a direction arrow.

Deflection of notched structural plate 212 x is similarly caused byactivating right mirror actuator 224 b by applying a voltage V to theactuator. The potential difference between notched structural plate 212x and right mirror actuator 224 b creates an electric field 230indicated by dotted field lines. Electric field 230 causes structuralplate 212 to deflect until it contacts base layer 204. Deflection ofnotched structural plate 212 x results in an opposing restoring force360, illustrated as a direction arrow.

The attractive force between actuators and an associated structuralplate (control member 250, 260 or structural plate 212) varies by theinverse of the distance squared. Thus, for example, the attractive forcecausing notched structural plate 212 x to deflect to a right tiltposition becomes greater as the distance between notched structuralplate 212 x and right mirror actuator 224 b decreases. Relying on thisrelationship, some embodiments provide for the tilt illustrated in FIG.3B by activating right mirror actuator 224 b and right control actuator254 b simultaneously. Because the distance between control member 250and right control actuator 254 b is less than the distance betweennotched structural plate 212 x and right mirror actuator 224 b, theforce is greater between control member 250 and left control actuator254 a. This greater force causes control member 250 to deflect fasterthan notched structural plate 212 x and therefore control member 250 isin contact with base layer 204 before notched structural plate 212 xcontacts base layer 204. Of course, the prior description assumessimilar energy in electric fields 230 and 238, as well as, similarrestoring forces 360 and 370. Also, it should be recognized that othersequences for energizing actuators are possible, for example, leftcontrol actuator 254 a can be energized before right mirror actuator 224b.

As previously described, in some embodiments, actuators 224 b and 254 acan be combined into a single actuator. Thus, to achieve the tiltdescribed in relation to FIG. 3B, only the single actuator replacingactuators 224 b and 254 a need be actuated to attract both controlmember 250 and notched structural plate 212 x.

It should also be recognized that hard stops (not shown) can befabricated on base layer 204 to limit any deflection of either notchedstructural plate 212 x and/or control member 250. Thus, by fabricating ahard stop above base layer 204, the angle of tilt for notched structuralplate 212 x and control member 250 can be controlled. Also, it should berecognized that control member 250 can be maintained in the left tiltposition held down by structural plate 212 x after actuator 254 a isdeactivated.

Similar to the deflection described with reference to FIG. 3B, FIG. 3Cillustrates notched structural plate 212 x tilted to the left. Referringto FIG. 3C, notched structural plate 212 x is deflected such that theleft edge of notched structural plate 212 x contacts base layer 204. Toallow notched structural plate 212 x to contact base layer 204, controlmember 260 is also deflected such that the right edge of control member260 is in contact with base layer 204. In this position, left notch 213of notched structural plate 212 x covers control member 260 such thatnotched structural plate 212 x does not contact control member 250 at anoverlap point 399.

To achieve the tilted position for control member 260, right controlactuator 264 b is activated by applying a voltage V to that actuatorwith respect to the common ground. The potential difference betweencontrol member 260 and right control actuator 264 b creates an electricfield 240 indicated by dotted field lines. Such deflection of controlmember 260 results in an opposing restoring force 395, illustrated as adirection arrow.

Deflection of notched structural plate 212 x is similarly caused byactivating left mirror actuator 224 a by applying a voltage V to theactuator. The potential difference between structural plate 212 x andright mirror actuator 224 a creates an electric field 234 indicated bydotted field lines. Electric field 234 causes structural plate 212 todeflect until it contacts base layer 204. Deflection of notchedstructural plate 212 x results in an opposing restoring force 380,illustrated as a direction arrow.

As illustrated in FIG. 3D, notched structural plate 212 x can be tiltedto a right position defined by control member 250. To achieve theposition illustrated in FIG. 3D, right control actuator 254 b isactivated by applying a voltage V to the actuator. The potentialdifference between control member 250 and right control actuator 254 bcreates an electric field 242 indicated by dotted field lines. Electricfield 242 causes control member 250 to deflect until it contacts righthard stop 254 c. Thus, the height of right hard stop 254 c directlycontrols the tilt angle of control member 250 and therefore, the tiltangle of notched structural plate 212 x. Alternatively, in someembodiments, right hard stop 254 c does not exist as illustrated inFIGS. 3B and 3C.

In addition, right mirror actuator 224 b is activated which createselectric field 230. Electric field 230 causes notched structural plate212 x to deflect toward right mirror actuator 224 b until notchedstructural plate 212 x contacts control member 250.

As previously suggested, the amount of right tilt for notched structuralplate 212 x can be, in part, selected by the height of right hard stop254 c. As will be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art, thegreater the height of right hard stop 254 c the greater the rightdeflection for notched structural plate 212 x. Alternatively, areduction of height of right hard stop 254 c similarly reduces thedeflection possible for notched structural plate 212 x.

Notched structural plate 212 x may similarly be deflected to the left tocontact control member 260 as illustrated in FIG. 3E. To achieve theposition illustrated in FIG. 3E, left control actuator 264 a isactivated by applying a voltage V to the actuator. The potentialdifference between control member 260 and left control actuator 264 acreates an electric field 236 indicated by dotted field lines. Electricfield 236 causes control member 260 to deflect until it contacts lefthard stop 264 c on base layer 204. In addition, left mirror actuator 224a is activated which creates electric filed 234. Electric field 234causes notched structural plate 212 x to deflect toward left mirroractuator 224 a until notched structural plate 212 x contacts controlmember 260.

Referring to FIG. 4A, a top view of a non-notched structural plate 212 yis illustrated. As illustrated, non-notched structural plate 212 yoverlaps a right portion 263 of control member 260 and a left portion253 of control member 250.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, non-notched structural plate 212 y can betilted to a right position defined by control member 250. To achieve theposition illustrated in FIG. 4B, left control actuator 254 a isactivated by applying a voltage V to the actuator. The potentialdifference between control member 250 and left control actuator 254 acreates an electric field 238 indicated by dotted field lines. Electricfield 238 causes control member 250 to deflect until it contacts baselayer 204. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a side of control member250 contacts a hard stop (not shown) fabricated on base layer 204.

In addition, right mirror actuator 224 b is activated which createselectric field 230. Electric field 230 causes non-notched structuralplate 212 y to deflect toward right mirror actuator 224 b untilnon-notched structural plate 212 y contacts control member 250. Theamount of right tilt for non-notched structural plate 212 y can be, inpart, selected by the overlap of non-notched structural plate 212 y andcontrol member 250.

Non-notched structural plate 212 y may similarly be deflected to theleft to contact control member 260 as illustrated in FIG. 4C. To achievethe position illustrated in FIG. 4C, right control actuator 264 b isactivated by applying a voltage V to the actuator. The potentialdifference between control member 260 and right control actuator 264 bcreates an electric field 240 indicated by dotted field lines. Electricfield 240 causes control member 260 to deflect until it contacts baselayer 204 or a hard stop (not shown) on base layer 204. In addition,left mirror actuator 224 a is activated which creates electric filed234. Electric field 234 causes non-notched structural plate 212 y todeflect toward left mirror actuator 224 a until non-notched structuralplate 212 y contacts control member 260.

Some embodiments provide the deflection illustrated in FIGS. 4B and 4Cby activating the involved mirror actuator 224 and the involved controlactuator 254, 264 simultaneously. Thus, for example, referring to FIG.4B, right mirror actuator 224 b and left control actuator 254 a areactivated at the same time. Because the distance between control member250 and left control actuator 254 a is less than the distance betweenstructural plate 212 and right mirror actuator 224 b, a larger forceexists between control member 250 and left control actuator 254 a. Thelarger force causes control member 250 to move into contact with baselayer 204 before structural plate 212 contacts control member 250.Again, the prior description assumes similar energy in electric fields230 and 238, as well as, similar restoring forces 360 and 375. Aspreviously discussed, the actuator pairs which are activatedsimultaneously can be replaced by a single actuator capable of providingsimilar functionality.

Alternatively, left control actuator 254 a is activated prior toactivating right mirror actuator 224 b. By activating left controlactuator 254 a prior to right mirror actuator 224 b, control member 250is brought into contact with base layer 204 before non-notchedstructural plate 212 contacts control member 250.

While the preceding embodiments are illustrated and described inrelation to micromirror system 200 including two control members 250,260, it should be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art thatonly one, or more than two control members can be used in accordancewith the present invention. Further, it should be recognized that one ormore of structural plate 212 and/or control members 250, 260 can be of acantilever configuration.

5. Overcoming Stiction

Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly applicable toovercoming stiction in MEMS devices. More specifically, FIGS. 5 and 6illustrate various methods according to the present invention forovercoming stiction.

FIG. 5A illustrates micromirror system 200 as depicted in FIG. 4C afterdeactivation of both right control actuator 264 b and left mirroractuator 224 a. More specifically, FIG. 5A illustrates micromirrorsystem 200 where stiction related forces are larger than restoring force395. Thus, when right control actuator 264 b is deactivated, controlmember 260 remains in a right tilt position. Such a situation can occur,for example, where control member 260 is maintained in the same righttilt position for extended time periods.

The present invention provides a variety of options for overcoming suchstiction. In some embodiments, left mirror actuator 224 a is activatedcausing structural plate 212 to deflect as indicated by motion arrows302 and 304. The deflection of structural plate 212 brings it intocontact with control member 260 with sufficient force to, at leastmomentarily, dislodge whatever is causing the stiction related forces,whether it be a charge, molecule or other build-up. In some instances,the contact between structural plate 212 and control member 260 causes amechanical, electrical, and/or combination disturbance. Having dislodgedthe stiction causing build-up, torsion force 395 acts to return controlmember 260 to its static horizontal position.

In addition to contacting control member 260 with structural plate 212,some embodiments activate left control actuator 264 a. This results inan attractive force between left control actuator 264 a and controlmember 260, which, when added to restoring force 395, is sufficient toovercome stiction related forces.

FIG. 5B illustrates an alternative situation where stiction results inboth structural plate 212 and control member 260 remaining in a tiltedposition after all actuators are deactivated. It should be recognizedthat the present invention makes such a situation somewhat less likelybecause of the combination of restoring force 380 associated withstructural plate 212 and restoring force 395 associated with controlmember 260 can be sufficient to overcome stiction related forces.However, the present invention provides additional options forovercoming such stiction beyond relying on the additive restoringforces.

Referring to FIG. 5C, forces in addition to restoring forces 395 and 380can be generated by activating either or both of left control actuator264 a and right mirror actuator 224 b. By activating both actuators 264a, 224 b, additive forces capable of overcoming any potential stictioninclude restoring forces 395 and 380, as well as, attractive forces fromelectric fields 230 and 236.

As the attractive force created by activating an actuator varies by theinverse of the distance from the actuator to the control member and/orstructural plate, it should be recognized by one skilled in the art thatwhere electrical field 230 is similar in strength to electric field 236,the attractive force between left control actuator 264 a and controlmember 260 will be larger than the attractive force between right mirroractuator 224 b and structural plate 212. Thus, in some embodiments,control member 260 is relatively short, which reduces the distancebetween control member 260 and left control actuator 264 a. Thisreduction in distance can result in increased force from electric field236 and can increase the force asserted by control member 260 acting topry up structural plate 212 as illustrated in FIG. 5C.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrates a particularly advantageous micromirror system600 which provides the prying action described in relation to FIG. 5Cwhile using minimal actuators, wiring and control logic. FIG. 6Aillustrates micromirror system 600 including a structural plate 612, amicromirror 616, a left control member 660, and a right control member650. Structural plate 612 is supported by a pivot 608, while right andleft control members 650, 660 are supported by pivots 652, 662,respectively. A left control actuator 664 is disposed beneath leftcontrol member 660 and over base layer 604. Similarly, a right controlactuator 654 is disposed beneath right control member 650. A left mirroractuator 624 a and a right mirror actuator 624 b are disposed beneathstructural plate 612 on either side of pivot 608.

As illustrated, micromirror system 600 is in a static horizontalconfiguration where each of structural plate 612 and control members 650and 660 are in a horizontal position. Actuators 664 and 624 b areconnected to a voltage potential V2 and actuators 654 and 624 a areconnected to a voltage potential V1. The static horizontal configurationis achieved when all actuators 624 a, 624 b, 654, 664 are commonlygrounded with pivots 608, 652, 662. Thus, in the static position,voltages V2 and V1 are equal to the potential of pivots 608, 652, 662.

A left tilt position of micromirror 616 is illustrated in FIG. 6B. Theleft tilt position is achieved by applying a voltage to V1, whilemaintaining V2 at a potential equal to pivots 608, 652, 662. By applyingthis voltage, actuator 624 a is activated and the left side ofstructural plate 612 is attracted toward base layer 604. As base layer612 moves toward base layer 604, it contacts left control member 660 andpulls it toward base layer 604. Ultimately, structural plate 612 comesto rest in contact with control member 660, where control member 660 isin contact with base layer 604. At the same time, actuator 654 isactivated causing right control member 650 to deflect to the right untilit contacts base layer 604.

In this position restoring forces 680, 685, 690 act to return base layer612 and control members 650 and 660 to the static horizontal position.Thus, when all actuators 624 a, 624 b, 654, 664 are returned to a commonpotential with pivots 608, 652, 662, restoring forces, in the absence ofstiction, cause base layer 612, and control members 650, 660 to assume ahorizontal position. Both restoring forces 680 and 685 act to overcomeany stiction forces causing base layer 612 to remain in the left tiltedposition illustrated in FIG. 6B.

Similarly, FIG. 6C illustrates a right tilt position of micromirror 616.The right tilt position is achieved by applying a voltage to V2, whilemaintaining V1 at a potential equal to pivots 608, 652, 662. By applyingthis voltage, actuator 624 b is activated and the right side ofstructural plate 612 is attracted toward base layer 604. As base layer612 moves toward base layer 604, it contacts right control member 650and pulls it toward base layer 604. Ultimately, structural plate 612comes to rest in contact with control member 650, where control member650 is in contact with base layer 604. At the same time, actuator 664 isactivated causing left control member 660 to deflect to the left untilit contacts base layer 604.

In this position restoring forces 681, 686, 691 act to return base layer612 and control members 650 and 660 to the static horizontal position.Both restoring forces 686 and 691 act to overcome any stiction forcescausing base layer 612 to remain in the right tilted positionillustrated in FIG. 6C.

In addition, stiction related forces can be overcome by actively pryingstructural plate 612 using either control member 650 or control member660. Such active prying is precipitated by switching from the left tiltposition to the right tilt position, or vice versa. This prying actionis achieved with minimal control or circuitry because of the connectionbetween actuators 624 a and 654 and between actuators 624 b and 664.Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the structures according to the presentinvention can both be used to create additional tilt positions for agiven structural plate and to create prying and/or tapping forces toovercome stiction.

For example, when switching from the left tilt position illustrated inFIG. 6B to the right tilt position illustrated in FIG. 6C, V2 isswitched to from the prior applied voltage potential to a ground and V1is switched from ground to a voltage potential. This switching not onlycauses structural plate 612 to move from a left tilt to a right tilt, itcauses control member 660 to act as a lever to overcome any stictionforces impeding the movement of structural plate 612. As previouslydescribed, the lever force provided by control member 660 can be largedue to the proximity of control member 660 and actuator 664. It shouldbe recognized that a similar lever action involving control member 650can be achieved when switching structural plate 612 from a right tiltposition to a left tilt position.

6. Fiber-Optics Applications

a. Wavelength Router

Tilting micromirrors according to the embodiments described above, andtheir equivalents, may be used in numerous applications as parts ofoptical switches, display devices, or signal modulators, among others.One particular application of such tilting micromirrors is as opticalswitches in a wavelength router such as may be used in fiber-optictelecommunications systems. One such wavelength router is described indetail in the copending, commonly assigned U.S. patent application,filed Nov. 16, 1999 and assigned Ser. No. 09/442,061, entitled“Wavelength Router,” which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety, including the Appendix, for all purposes. The variousmicromirror embodiments may be used in that wavelength router or may beincorporated into other wavelength routers as optical switches where itis desirable to avoid stiction problems.

Wavelength routing functions may be performed optically with afree-space optical train disposed between the input ports and the outputports, and a routing mechanism. The free-space optical train can includeair-spaced elements or can be of generally monolithic construction. Theoptical train includes a dispersive element such as a diffractiongrating, and is configured so that the light from the input portencounters the dispersive element twice before reaching any of theoutput ports. The routing mechanism includes one or more routingelements and cooperates with the other elements in the optical train toprovide optical paths that couple desired subsets of the spectral bandsto desired output ports. The routing elements are disposed to interceptthe different spectral bands after they have been spatially separated bytheir first encounter with the dispersive element.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C are schematic top, side, and end views,respectively, of one embodiment of a wavelength router 10. Its generalfunctionality is to accept light having a plurality N of spectral bandsat an input port 12, and to direct subsets of the spectral bands todesired ones of a plurality M of output ports, designated 15(1) . . .15(M). The output ports are shown in the end view of FIG. 7C as disposedalong a line 17 that extends generally perpendicular to the top view ofFIG. 7A. Light entering the wavelength router 10 from input port 12forms a diverging beam 18, which includes the different spectral bands.Beam 18 encounters a lens 20 that collimates the light and directs it toa reflective diffraction grating 25. The grating 25 disperses the lightso that collimated beams at different wavelengths are directed atdifferent angles back towards the lens 20.

Two such beams are shown explicitly and denoted 26 and 26′, the latterdrawn in dashed lines. Since these collimated beams encounter the lens20 at different angles, they are focused towards different points alonga line 27 in a transverse plane extending in the plane of the top viewof FIG. 7A. The focused beams encounter respective ones of a pluralityof retroreflectors that may be configured according as contactlessmicromirror optical switches as described above, designated 30(1) . . .30(N), located near the transverse plane. The beams are directed back,as diverging beams, to the lens 20 where they are collimated, anddirected again to the grating 25. On the second encounter with thegrating 25, the angular separation between the different beams isremoved and they are directed back to the lens 20, which focuses them.The retroreflectors 30 may be configured to send their intercepted beamsalong a reverse path displaced along respective lines 35(1) . . . 35(N)that extend generally parallel to line 17 in the plane of the side viewof FIG. 7B and the end view of FIG. 2C, thereby directing each beam toone or another of output ports 15.

Another embodiment of a wavelength router, designated 10′, isillustrated with schematic top and side views in FIGS. 9A and 9B,respectively. This embodiment may be considered an unfolded version ofthe embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7C. Light entering the wavelength router 10′from input port 12 forms diverging beam 18, which includes the differentspectral bands. Beam 18 encounters a first lens 20 a, which collimatesthe light and directs it to a transmissive grating 25′. The grating 25′disperses the light so that collimated beams at different wavelengthsencounter a second lens 20 b, which focuses the beams. The focused beamsare reflected by respective ones of plurality of retroreflectors 30,which may also be configured as contactless micromirror opticalswitches, as diverging beams, back to lens 20 b, which collimates themand directs them to grating 25′. On the second encounter, the grating25′ removes the angular separation between the different beams, whichare then focused in the plane of output ports 15 by lens 20 a.

A third embodiment of a wavelength router, designated 10″, isillustrated with the schematic top view shown in FIG. 9. This embodimentis a further folded version of the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7C, shown as asolid glass embodiment that uses a concave reflector 40 in place of lens20 of FIGS. 7A-7C or lenses 20 a and 20 b of FIGS. 8A-8B. Light enteringthe wavelength router 10″ from input port 12 forms diverging beam 18,which includes the different spectral bands. Beam 18 encounters concavereflector 40, which collimates the light and directs it to reflectivediffraction grating 25, where it is dispersed so that collimated beamsat different wavelengths are directed at different angles back towardsconcave reflector 40. Two such beams are shown explicitly, one in solidlines and one in dashed lines. The beams then encounter retroreflectors30 and proceed on a return path, encountering concave reflector 40,reflective grating 25′, and concave reflector 40, the final encounterwith which focuses the beams to the desired output ports. Again, theretroreflectors 30 may be configured as contactless micromirror opticalswitches.

b. Optical-Switch Retroreflector Implementations

FIG. 10A shows schematically the operation of a retroreflector,designated 30 a, that uses contactless-micromirror optical switches.FIG. 10B is a top view. A pair of micromirror arrays 62 and 63 ismounted to the sloped faces of a V-block 64. A single micromirror 65 inmicromirror array 62 and a row of micromirrors 66(1 . . . M) inmicromirror array 63 define a single retroreflector. Micromirror arraysmay conveniently be referred to as the input and output micromirrorarrays, with the understanding that light paths are reversible. The leftportion of the figure shows micromirror 65 in a first orientation so asto direct the incoming beam to micromirror 66(1), which is oriented 90°with respect to micromirror 65's first orientation to direct the beamback in a direction opposite to the incident direction. The right halfof the figure shows micromirror 65 in a second orientation so as todirect the incident beam to micromirror 66(M). Thus, micromirror 65 ismoved to select the output position of the beam, while micromirrors 66(1. . . M) are fixed during normal operation. Micromirror 65 and the rowof micromirrors 66 (1 . . . M) can be replicated and displaced in adirection perpendicular to the plane of the figure. While micromirrorarray 62 need only be one-dimensional, it may be convenient to provideadditional micromirrors to provide additional flexibility.

In one embodiment, the micromirror arrays are planar and the V-groovehas a dihedral angle of approximately 90° so that the two micromirrorarrays face each other at 90°. This angle may be varied for a variety ofpurposes by a considerable amount, but an angle of 90° facilitatesrouting the incident beam with relatively small angular displacements ofthe micromirrors. In certain embodiments, the input micromirror arrayhas at least as many rows of micromirrors as there are input ports (ifthere are more than one), and as many columns of mirrors as there arewavelengths that are to be selectably directed toward the outputmicromirror array. Similarly, in some embodiments, the outputmicromirror array has at least as many rows of micromirrors as there areoutput ports, and as many columns of mirrors as there are wavelengthsthat are to be selectably directed to the output ports.

In a system with a magnification factor of one-to-one, the rows ofmicromirrors in the input array are parallel to each other and thecomponent of the spacing from each other along an axis transverse to theincident beam corresponds to the spacing of the input ports. Similarly,the rows of micromirrors in the output array are parallel to each otherand spaced from each other (transversely) by a spacing corresponding tothat between the output ports. In a system with a differentmagnification, the spacing between the rows of mirrors would be adjustedaccordingly.

7. Conclusion

The invention has now been described in detail for purposes of clarityand understanding. However, it will be appreciated that certain changesand modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appendedclaims. For example, additional actuators and/or control members can beadded to provide additional aspects according to the present invention.Such additional aspects can include mounting the structural plate on apost and adding actuators disposed under the front and rear sides of thestructural plate such that the structural plate can be deflected to theright, left, front, rear, or combinations thereof.

Thus, although the invention is described with reference to specificembodiments and figures thereof, the embodiments and figures are merelyillustrative, and not limiting of the invention. Rather, the scope ofthe invention is to be determined solely by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for overcoming a stiction force in anelectro-mechanical device, wherein the stiction force is between astructural plate and a contact point, the method comprising: providing abase layer; providing a first pivot and a second pivot disposed on thebase layer; providing a first structural plate supported by the firstpivot and disposed above the base layer, wherein an edge of the firststructural plate is in contact with the contact point; providing asecond structural plate supported by the second pivot and disposed abovethe base layer; and deflecting the second structural plate to overcome astiction force between the first structural plate and the contact point.2. The method of claim 1, wherein the deflecting the second structuralplate is caused, at least in part, by a restorative force between thesecond structural plate and the second pivot.
 3. The method of claim 1,the method further comprising; providing an actuator disposed on thebase layer and under the second structural plate; and activating theactuator to create an electric field force, wherein the deflecting thesecond structural plate is caused, at least in part, by the electricfield force.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the deflecting the secondstructural plate is caused, at least in part, by a combination of theelectric field force and a restorative force between the secondstructural plate and the second pivot.
 5. The method of claim 1, themethod further comprising: providing a first actuator disposed on thebase layer and under the first structural plate; providing a secondactuator disposed on the base layer and under the second structuralplate; and activating the first actuator, wherein the first actuatorcreates a first electric field force; activating the second actuator,wherein the second actuator creates a second electric field force,wherein the deflecting the second structural plate is caused, at leastin part, by a combination of the second electric field force and arestorative force between the second structural plate and the secondpivot; and wherein the stiction force is overcome by a combination ofthe deflecting the second structural plate, a restorative force betweenthe first structural plate and the first pivot, and the first electricfield force.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the deflecting the secondstructural plate comprises moving the second structural plate intocontact with the first structural plate.
 7. The method of claim 6,wherein the stiction force is caused, at least in part, by a moleculebuild-up or an adhesion force, and wherein the contact with the firststructural plate causes a disturbance in the molecule build-up oradhesion force.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein a combination of arestorative force between the first structural plate and the first pivotand the disturbance in the molecule build-up or adhesion force issufficient to overcome the stiction force.
 9. The method of claim 6,wherein the stiction force is caused, at least in part, by a chargebuild-up, and wherein the contact with the first structural plate causesa disturbance in the charge build-up.
 10. The method of claim 1, themethod further comprising: providing an actuator disposed on the baselayer and under the second structural plate; and activating the actuatorto create an electric field force, wherein the deflecting the secondstructural plate is caused, at least in part, by the electric fieldforce, and wherein a first impact occurs between the first structuralplate and the second structural plate; deactivating the actuator,wherein the second structural plate moves away from the first structuralplate; and reactivating the actuator to create the electric field force,wherein a second impact occurs between the first structural plate andthe second structural plate, and wherein a combination of the firstimpact and the second impact reduces the stiction force.
 11. A methodfor overcoming a stiction force incident at a stop position in a MEMSdevice, the method comprising: providing a base layer; providing a firstplate supported by a first pivot, wherein the first plate is disposedabove the base layer and the first pivot is disposed on the base layer;providing a second plate supported by a second pivot, wherein the secondplate is disposed above the base layer and the second pivot is disposedon the base layer; deflecting the first plate and deflecting the secondplate to the stop position, wherein at the stop position, the secondplate contacts the base layer or a structure thereon and the first platecontacts the second plate; and wherein the stiction force is overcome bya combination of a first restorative force between the first plate andthe first pivot and a second restorative force between the second plateand the second pivot.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the firstplate comprises a mirror.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein thedeflecting the first plate comprises activating a first actuator and thedeflecting the second plate comprises deflecting the second actuator.14. The method of claim 13, wherein activating the first actuatorcomprises applying a voltage to the first actuator.
 15. The method ofclaim 11, the method further comprising: providing a first actuatordisposed beneath the first plate; providing a second actuator disposedbeneath the second plate; activating the first actuator to create afirst actuator force on the first plate; activating the second actuatorto create a second actuator force on the second plate; and wherein thestiction force is overcome by a combination of the first and secondrestorative forces, and the first and second actuator forces.
 16. Amethod for overcoming a stiction force trapping a first plate in contactwith a base layer or a structure thereon, the first plate included in aMEMS device, the method comprising: providing the base layer; providinga first actuator and a second actuator disposed on the base layer;providing the first plate supported by a first pivot, wherein the firstplate is disposed above the first actuator and the first pivot isdisposed on the base layer between the first actuator and the secondactuator; providing a second plate supported by a second pivot, whereinthe second plate is disposed above the second actuator and the secondpivot is dispose on the base layer; activating the second actuator tocause the second plate to impact the first plate, wherein the impactreduces the stiction force.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein theimpact is a first impact, the method further comprising: deactivatingthe second actuator, wherein the second plate moves away from the firstplate; and reactivating the second actuator to cause the second plate toimpact the first plate for a second time, wherein the second impactfurther reduces the stiction force.
 18. The method of claim 16, themethod further comprising: activating the first actuator to create anactuator force on the first plate, wherein the actuator force on thefirst plate is in opposition to the stiction force.
 19. The method ofclaim 18, wherein the stiction force is overcome by a combination of theimpact and the actuator force.
 20. The method of claim 18, wherein thestiction force is overcome by a combination of the impact, the actuatorforce, and a restorative force between the first plate and the firstpivot.
 21. The method of claim 16, wherein the first plate comprises amirror.
 22. The method of claim 16, wherein the second plate comprises amirror.
 23. An apparatus adapted for overcoming a stiction force,wherein the stiction force is between a structural plate and a contactpoint, the apparatus comprising: a base layer; a first pivot and asecond pivot disposed on the base layer; a first structural platesupported by the first pivot and disposed above the base layer, whereinan edge of the first structural plate is in contact with the contactpoint; a second structural plate supported by the second pivot anddisposed above the base layer; and wherein the second structural plateis movable to overcome a stiction force between the first structuralplate and the contact point.
 24. The apparatus of claim 23, theapparatus further comprising: a first actuator for deflecting the firststructural plate; a second actuator for deflecting the second structuralplate; and wherein the first and second actuators are electricallycoupled.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the first actuator isoperable to deflect the first structural plate toward the base layer ata position away from the second structural plate, the apparatus furthercomprising: a third actuator operable to deflect the first structuralplate toward the base layer at a position near the second structuralplate.
 26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein activation of the firstactuator and the second actuator causes both the first structural plateand the second structural plate to deflect away from the contact point.27. A MEMS device adapted for overcoming a stiction force incident at astop position, the device comprising: a base layer; a first platesupported by a first pivot, wherein the first plate is disposed abovethe base layer and the first pivot is disposed on the base layer; asecond plate supported by a second pivot, wherein the second plate isdisposed above the base layer and the second pivot is disposed on thebase layer; a first actuator for deflecting the first plate and a secondactuator for deflecting the second plate, wherein the first actuator iselectrically connected to the second actuator; and wherein energizingthe first and second actuators causes the first plate to deflect awayfrom the second plate and the second plate to deflect away from thefirst plate, thereby overcoming the stiction force.
 28. The device ofclaim 27, the device further comprising: a contact position at whichstiction forces trap either of the first plate or the second platedisposed between the first pivot and the second pivot, whereinenergizing the first and second actuators causes the first plate and thesecond plate to deflect away from the contact position.
 29. The deviceof claim 27, wherein the first plate contacts the second plate at aposition between the first pivot and the second pivot.